LimavsCape Town
Overall
š°+19.0%
Lima is 19.0%more expensive
Rent
š+25.0%
Housing is 25.0% higher
Dining
š½ļø+42.9%
Restaurants 42.9% pricier
Groceries
š0.0%
Food shopping 0.0% same
Comparing the cost of living between Lima, Peru and Cape Town, South Africa reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Lima is more expensive than Cape Town by approximately 19.0%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Lima are lower than in Cape Town by 20%. A one-bedroom apartment in Lima's city center costs around PENĀ 2,000, while the same in Cape Town is approximately ZARĀ 12,000.
Dining out in Lima offers significant savings compared to Cape Town. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs PENĀ 15 in Lima versus ZARĀ 150 in Cape Town.
Public transportation in Lima is more affordable, with monthly passes at PENĀ 100 compared to ZARĀ 800 in Cape Town.
Purchasing power in Cape Town is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Lima.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Lima can expect to spend approximately PENĀ 867 per month (excluding rent), while in Cape Town, the same lifestyle would cost around ZARĀ 5,890. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about PENĀ 3,035 monthly in Lima versus ZARĀ 20,615 in Cape Town. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
š Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
š½ļø Food & Dining
š Groceries
š Transportation
š” Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Lima to Cape Town, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Cape Town to Lima requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Lima
Cape Town
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lima more expensive than Cape Town?
Yes, Lima is approximately 19.0% more expensive than Cape Town overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Lima compared to Cape Town?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Cape Town salary when living in Lima. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Cape Town, you'd need about $59,524 in Lima for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Lima and Cape Town?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 30%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Cape Town offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Cape Town provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Lima if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Cape Town for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Lima vs Cape Town?
In Lima, a single person needs approximately PENĀ 2,067 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about PENĀ 5,235. In Cape Town, these figures are ZARĀ 13,890 for singles and ZARĀ 38,615 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Lima and Cape Town in 2025 shows notable differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Cape Town to maintain your lifestyle from Lima
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